Camo Chic {yes, there is such a thing}

Happy Tuesday, y'all! Sorry I missed you yesterday. Mondays can sometimes take on a life of their own with playing catch up and that's exactly how I felt yesterday. Today, I'm here to tell you that camouflage isn't just for rednecks anymore {my apologies in advance if you are in fact a redneck and you take offense}. You've seen it around town and in the magazines and you might have wondered, "Is camouflage REALLY in?" I was on the fence for quite awhile before I stumbled across two things that changed my mind. Today I'm sharing them with you! There are, of course, exceptions to this, as there are to any rule. Here are a few guidelines to go by when jumping on the camo train.

Camouflage can be chic IF...

...it is used as an accent or accessory. Don't make it your main focus and DON'T double up on your camo in the same outfit. Try it in the form of a belt, pants, shoes or another accent piece.

...it is the RIGHT kind of camo. By right, I mean you did not purchase it at Bass Pro Shops. It cannot contain leaves, y'all. I know many of you are in the south and this might have been okay in high school. Not now! Try stores like J.Crew, LOFT, Anthropologie, Banana Republic and Nordstrom. They know what they're doing.

...it is subtle and neutral. Don't choose a loud, bright green but rather a soft and subtle camouflage.

...it's combined with classic and chic pieces. Don't combine it with a light wash jean, but try it instead with a black pant, or silk shirt.

I like to stick to accessories when it comes to camo. This printed haircalf belt from LOFT caught my attention and I decided to give it a try. I've now found myself using it ALMOST {key word almost} as much as my skinny leopard belt.I paired it with an ultra-dark wash jean and cranberry silk shirt up top. The camouflage belt adds a little pop of pattern without being overbearing.My faux-fur vest made its way into the picture, the perfect accessory for chilly nights and the perfect brown to accent the belt.I added in my favorite simple + subtle Kendra Scott necklace up top

And, I snagged these Camo Haircalf Slipper Flats on SUPER sale. You can, too!

So follow these guidelines if a camouflage purchase is in your future. You can pull it off with a few rules!

pattern on pattern

Happy Tuesday! Fall is coming, so make sure you address your wardrobe in time! Book your consult today by emailing courtney@lifestyledatlanta.com; whether you need a wardrobe overhaul, or an hour of outfit inspiration. Today we're talking pattern mixing :: it's not only allowed, but encouraged in your wardrobe! You just have to know how to do it right. There are a few rules when it comes to pattern on pattern ::

1. Make sure one of your patterns is more subtle than the other. Two ultra-bold patterns will make your look a little loud and messy
2. Stripes and leopard ALWAYS  work. If you're uneasy about mixing your patterns and don't quite know what looks good, you can never go wrong with a simple black + white stripe with a leopard or cheetah print
3. Be careful with florals. Florals can be great with other patterns, but be careful. A bigger floral pattern will compliment another pattern better than a tiny floral with lots of colors.

Okay, we all know I have a slight MAJOR obsession with leopard. But I'm not ashamed! Leopard is a neutral as far as I'm concerned, and it is the perfect pattern mixer because of that. Here's some inspiration for you ::

So don't be afraid to try some pattern mixing, especially this fall! It's the perfect time to maximize your wardrobe and use your pieces in new and versatile ways. Pattern mixing allows you to do just that!

Get my favorite leopard clutch HERE

spotlight :: Peter Pilotto for Target

Happy Wednesday! I hope all of you had a fabulous Memorial Day weekend with family and friends. Thank you to all of the men and women who sacrifice for our freedom!

Today, as I'm getting back into the groove of things, I'm highlighting the Peter Pilotto for Target line. These edgy, bold patterns are perfect for summer and only need minimal accessorizing. Here's a Peter Pilotto dress I scored on clearance for $11.88. And now, all of the Peter Pilotto line is now on clearance on Target's website so you can score some great deals!

Here are some summer favorites {for CHEAP!} on the Target website ::

So there you have it... The bold & spunky Peter Pilotto line for Target, all at clearance prices! That's a way to try a new fashion statement without breaking the bank. And, stay tuned for this Peter Pilotto look to be featured on Style Under 40.

Tomorrow, I'm talking about the summer sweater!

Until then - stay stylish,

Tuesday's Tutorial :: The Knotted Belt

Happy Tuesday! Today I'm talking the knotted belt. It is another fun way that you can wear your belts, whether with pants, skirts or tops.

Break away from the basic way of buckling your belt, and try a knotted belt the next time you're belting. You can achieve this look with a thin or thick belt, around your waist or around your hips!

Here's the tutorial ::

• First, buckle the belt normally at the length that you're comfortable with; whether it's around your hips or your waist

• When you put the belt through the buckle, don't put it through the second time. Instead, bring it in a loop underneath.

• Bring the loop upward, and circle it back around the front of the secured belt on your waist or hip

 

• Pull the knot securely and center it around your middle. Depending on how long or short your belt is, there will be some amount hanging down.

*A tip :: When I buy a belt that I plan to wear both around my waist at times, and my hips at times, I always buy one or two sizes too big. Then, I poke my own hole in the belt that will allow me to use it around the small of my waist, as I am doing here.

So try the knotted belt next time you're belting! I guarantee you'll receive a compliment or two, and love having another versatile way to belt.

Stay Stylish!

How to :: Belting Tops

Many of you have those tops in your closet that, while you may love the pattern or color, just seem to big / baggy / long / all of the above. Maybe you have a top that you feel is just "blah" or unflattering. Never fear, there is a solution! Those tops can be belted, drawing the eye to the small of your waist and creating a more flattering fit.

For tops that are just a smidge too long, try a skinny belt ::

For those tops that are basically tunic-length, you can try a skinny or thick belt, like so ::

And those tops that came with a belt attached? Mix it up! Pull that belt out and try one of your own. A skinny leopard belt can replace a neutral belt and give your top the perfect flair. A gold metallic belt adds a dressier element than a natural brown or cloth belt.

You can even belt over both your top, and a lightweight cardigan ::

Wear your top over pants, jeans, or a pencil skirt for work.

Happy Thursday! Wishing you a stylish week.